A Neptune Beach nonprofit is expanding confidential, no‑cost mental‑health support for veterans in Jacksonville, pairing peer specialists with walk‑in, phone and text options. The rollout aims to reach people who don’t use traditional VA care.

Florida’s teachers union has sued the state, arguing universal vouchers and charter funding have siphoned billions from neighborhood public schools and violated the state constitution.

A Neptune Beach developer bought the former Sears at Orange Park Mall and filed plans for a mixed‑use project that includes a grocer, dental office and Mediterranean restaurant.

Katrina Lyn Hatzl, 29, died when her car ran off U.S. 1 and struck an embankment late May 1. Troopers say the cause remains under investigation.

A $13.31 million city permit lets Aldi start renovating the Baldwin distribution center, part of a $35M plan to reopen a 1.12M‑sq‑ft campus for a 2027 launch.

A Lake City daycare worker was arrested after surveillance video allegedly showed her tossing and shaking an infant who remains in pediatric intensive care. Authorities say the child suffered serious brain injuries.

Texas-born Desi Chowrastha has opened its first Florida outpost in St. Johns, pairing a broad counter-service menu with an attached grocery and live kitchens.

A quick warm-up pushes Jacksonville into the low 90s today; a Fire Weather Watch is in effect for Thursday with gusty winds and low humidity.

Marion County deputies are investigating after witnesses found a man dead near 189th Avenue in Dunnellon. Officials say no identity or cause has been released as the scene is processed.

An elderly woman was recovered from a car pulled from a retention pond behind stores near River City Marketplace after anglers spotted the submerged vehicle; JSO is investigating.

Authorities say a Palm Coast mother left her three teens at AdventHealth Palm Coast and drove off. Deputies later found dozens of animals — including 44 dogs — at her home.

A head-on crash in Effingham County killed a father; deputies arrested a 27-year-old driver who federal officials said had a final order of removal.

Publix’s customer‑service FAQ and in‑store signs now ask that only law enforcement openly carry firearms, a reversal from the chain’s October policy. Local reporters say the change showed up this week.